SheSuceeds
SheSucceeds
SheSucceeds supports female students in Jordan through gender-equitable project-based learning (PBL) in IT study programmes. The aim is to strengthen sustainable networks, equal opportunities and academic freedom in higher education, thereby advancing gender equality.
| Project lead: | Prof. Dr Paul Grimm |
| Duration: | April 2024 to December 2024 |
| Funding body: | DAAD – ‘Ta’ziz Short-Term Measures 2024’ funding programme |
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The SheSucceeds project is committed to promoting greater gender equality in IT-related study programmes in Jordan. Its aim is to improve female students’ participation in higher education through sustainable networks, innovative teaching methods and targeted communication strategies. The focus is on project-based learning (PBL), which is characterised by self-directed, problem-solving work. Although PBL is already being used successfully at German universities, female students in Jordan often face structural barriers due to family, cultural and social norms that limit their equal participation. SheSucceeds addresses these challenges with a cross-national, practice-oriented approach.
Project timeline
Together with the partner universities – Tafila Technical University (TTU) and the German Jordanian University (GJU) – as well as the universities of applied sciences in Darmstadt (h_da), Jena (EAH) and Brandenburg (THB), the project is developing gender-equitable PBL models. In an initial workshop at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences, best-practice examples from international media degree programmes will be analysed and recommendations for gender-sensitive teaching derived. These findings will be put into practice during a second workshop at TTU in Jordan and transferred to the local education system.
Particular emphasis is placed on the active involvement of stakeholders in society: family members, local initiatives and political decision-makersare integrated into the project to promote acceptance and sustainability. This is complemented by exchange programmes for students and teaching staff between German and Jordanian universities. In addition, awareness-raising activities for young women and capacity-building workshops are being held at the partner institutions.
Aim of the project
SheSucceeds aims to systematically strengthen gender equality in higher education in Jordan. Beyond the introduction of gender-sensitive PBL formats, the project seeks to initiate long-term processes of change in teaching culture and the organisation of studies. Through the targeted support of female students in the IT and media sectors, the creation of participatory learning spaces and the involvement of the wider community, the project creates new pathways to education and strengthens academic freedom. Ultimately, the results are intended to contribute to a shift in social discourse and increase the visibility of women in technology-oriented disciplines.
